Go Jump in a Lake

To prevent nasty recreational water illnesses, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) offers six steps to promote healthy swimming: (1) Don't swim when afflicted with diarrhea, (2) avoid allowing water into your mouth, (3) practice good hygiene, (4) take children for frequent toilet breaks, (5) change diapers in appropriate areas and (6) shower before swimming. Following these common-sense rules will only add to the enjoyment of water parks, rivers, hot tubs and, through Labor Day weekend, the Jackson County beaches at Longview Lake and Blue Springs Lake. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays and from 1 p.m. (3 p.m. after August 17) to 7 p.m. on weekdays, swimmers and non-swimmers, floaters and sinkers, sun worshippers and creepy old men alike can pack up the goggles for a day at the lake. Admission is $5 for ages 16 and older, $3 for seniors and kids. See jacksongov.org/beaches or call 816-503-4876 for directions and season-pass information. Wash your hands — it's time for the beach!
Mondays-Fridays, 1-7 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Mondays-Fridays, 3-7 p.m. Starts: July 1. Continues through Sept. 7, 2009